Schools play a crucial role in shaping students’ futures, and the debate over curriculum content is ongoing. One topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 is whether schools should teach practical life skills. This question has been featured in past exams and is likely to resurface in future tests due to its relevance in today’s rapidly changing world.

Let’s examine a recent IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this subject:

Some people think that schools should teach children practical skills like car maintenance or managing bank accounts. Others argue that schools should focus on academic subjects only. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question presents two contrasting views on the role of schools in education:

1. Schools should teach practical life skills
2. Schools should focus solely on academic subjects

The task requires you to discuss both perspectives and provide your personal opinion. It’s important to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score.

Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9 Response

Education has long been a cornerstone of societal progress, and the debate over what schools should teach continues to evolve. While some argue that practical skills like car maintenance or financial management should be included in the curriculum, others believe that schools should maintain their focus on traditional academic subjects. In my opinion, a balanced approach that incorporates both practical skills and academic knowledge would best serve students in today’s complex world.

Those who advocate for teaching practical skills in schools argue that such knowledge is essential for navigating adult life. They contend that skills like managing bank accounts, understanding taxes, or performing basic household repairs are crucial for students’ future independence and financial stability. Moreover, proponents argue that incorporating these skills into the curriculum could help bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application, making education more relevant and engaging for students.

On the other hand, supporters of a purely academic focus in schools maintain that the primary purpose of education is to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a broad knowledge base. They argue that subjects like mathematics, science, literature, and history provide the foundation for higher learning and intellectual growth. Furthermore, they contend that practical skills can be acquired through other means, such as family guidance, vocational training, or personal experience, leaving schools free to concentrate on academic excellence.

In my view, the ideal approach lies in striking a balance between practical skills and academic subjects. While it is crucial to maintain a strong focus on core academic disciplines, integrating some practical life skills into the curriculum could significantly enhance students’ preparedness for adulthood. For example, schools could offer elective courses or workshops on financial literacy, basic home economics, or digital competency. This approach would not only provide students with valuable life skills but also help them see the real-world applications of their academic knowledge.

In conclusion, while the debate between practical skills and academic subjects in education is complex, a balanced approach that incorporates both elements would be most beneficial for students. By providing a strong academic foundation complemented by essential life skills, schools can better equip students to face the challenges of the modern world and become well-rounded, capable adults.

Students learning practical life skills in a classroom setting

Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Response

The question of what schools should teach is a topic of much debate. Some people think schools should teach practical skills like fixing cars or managing money, while others believe schools should only focus on academic subjects. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.

Those who support teaching practical skills in schools say these are important for real life. They argue that skills like car maintenance and managing bank accounts are necessary for students when they become adults. Learning these skills in school could help students be more independent and prepared for the future. It could also make school more interesting for some students who prefer hands-on learning.

On the other hand, people who think schools should only teach academic subjects have their reasons too. They say that subjects like math, science, and literature are the core of education. These subjects help students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are useful in many areas of life. They also argue that practical skills can be learned outside of school, from family or through experience.

In my opinion, I think schools should try to include both academic subjects and some practical skills. While it’s important to focus on traditional subjects, adding some life skills lessons could be very helpful for students. For example, schools could have classes about managing money or basic home repairs. This way, students can learn important academic knowledge and also gain skills they will use in their daily lives.

To conclude, both academic subjects and practical skills are important for students. I believe the best approach is to have a mix of both in schools. This can help prepare students for their future careers and also for everyday life challenges.

Sample Essay 3: Band 5-6 Response

Some people think schools should teach practical skills like fixing cars or managing money. Other people think schools should only teach academic subjects. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

People who want schools to teach practical skills say it’s important for real life. They think students need to know how to do things like fix cars and use bank accounts when they grow up. Learning these things in school could help students be ready for adult life. It might also make school more fun for some students.

But other people think schools should only teach subjects like math, science, and history. They say these subjects are very important for education. These subjects help students think better and solve problems. They also say students can learn practical skills at home or by themselves.

I think both views have good points. Schools should teach academic subjects because they are important. But I also think some practical skills should be taught in school. Maybe schools can have special classes for life skills. This way, students can learn both types of things.

In conclusion, I believe schools should teach both academic subjects and some practical skills. This can help students be ready for their future jobs and for everyday life.

Students engaged in both academic and practical learning activities

Explanation of Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay:

This essay demonstrates excellent command of language with a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures. It presents a clear and well-developed argument, addressing all parts of the task. The ideas are logically organized and supported with relevant examples. The use of cohesive devices is natural and effective, and the conclusion summarizes the main points while offering a balanced perspective.

Band 6-7 Essay:

This essay shows a good grasp of the task and presents relevant ideas. The argument is generally clear, although not as fully developed as the Band 8-9 essay. The vocabulary and grammar are adequate, with some attempts at more complex structures. There are some errors, but they do not impede communication. The essay has a clear structure, but the cohesion between ideas could be stronger.

Band 5-6 Essay:

This essay addresses the task, but the ideas are less developed and may lack depth. The language used is simpler, with a more limited range of vocabulary and grammatical structures. There are more noticeable errors, although the overall meaning remains clear. The essay has a basic structure, but the organization of ideas and use of cohesive devices are less sophisticated.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Curriculum (noun) /kəˈrɪkjələm/ – The subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college
2. Vocational (adjective) /vəʊˈkeɪʃənl/ – Relating to skills you have been taught that will be particularly useful in your future job
3. Financial literacy (noun phrase) /faɪˈnænʃl ˈlɪtərəsi/ – The ability to understand and effectively use various financial skills
4. Elective (noun/adjective) /ɪˈlektɪv/ – A course that a student can choose to take, rather than one that is required
5. Critical thinking (noun phrase) /ˈkrɪtɪkl ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/ – The objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgment
6. Life skills (noun phrase) /laɪf skɪlz/ – Abilities for adaptive and positive behavior that enable individuals to deal effectively with the demands and challenges of everyday life
7. Academic excellence (noun phrase) /ækəˈdemɪk ˈeksələns/ – The achievement of the highest standards in academic study
8. Well-rounded (adjective) /wel ˈraʊndɪd/ – Having a personality that is fully developed in all aspects
9. Hands-on (adjective) /hændz ɒn/ – Involving or offering active participation rather than theory
10. Core subjects (noun phrase) /kɔː ˈsʌbdʒekts/ – The main or most important subjects taught in a school curriculum

The debate over teaching practical life skills in schools is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related topics such as:

• The role of technology in education
• Balancing traditional and modern teaching methods
• The importance of leadership training in schools
• Incorporating mindfulness education in schools
• The role of financial education in schools

Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Feel free to practice by writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.